Skip to content

Anonymous donor to match Toys for Tots fundraising total

Annual event for Abbotsford Christmas Bureau takes place Friday, Nov. 23
14456265_web1_181121-ABB-Toys-for-Tots-file_2
A photo booth with Santa is part of the fun at the annual Toys for Tots event for the Abbotsford Christmas Bureau. The annual event takes place Friday, Nov. 23.

The sixth annual Toys for Tots Breakfast takes place Friday, Nov. 23 to collect cash donations and new toys for the Abbotsford Christmas Bureau.

The event runs from 6 to 9:30 a.m. at the Quality Hotel and Conference Centre, 36035 North Parallel Rd.

A free buffet breakfast is provided to anyone who drops off a donation.

An anonymous donor has offered to match cash donations, up to $20,000. The 2017 event raised $58,400 and more than 2,000 toys.

“It’s going to be tough to beat last year’s record, but every year the community keeps surprising us with their generosity,” said event organizer Rebecca Thuro.

RELATED: Toys for Tots Breakfast raises $56,000 and more than 2,000 toys

“From the sponsors to the kids who bring in their piggy banks, the entire community comes together.”

The event includes Cliff Prang as MC, a photo booth, a visit from Santa, and live Christmas music featuring the MEI Chamber Singers, the band Coalmont, Ever After Princesses, Ryan McAllister and more.

A drive-thru for drop-offs will be open for those who don’t have time to stay for breakfast. Coffee and snacks will be available.

After the event, the toys are brought to the Christmas Bureau – which operates as the Abbotsford Community Services Food Bank the rest of the year – where families in need can shop for gifts for their children.

The agency expects to help more than 1,200 children this season.

“Some of the families who use the Christmas Bureau are those who are currently accessing our food bank, but we also help other families who just can’t stretch their budgets enough to buy toys for their kids,” said Dave Murray, food bank manager.

Visit abbytoysfortots.ca for more information.